Kenya: EABL CEO Jane Karuku named Chair of Manufacturers’ Association

The Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) has appointed Jane Karuku, CEO and Group Managing Director of EABL, as its chairperson for a two-year term.

Karuku will take over from Rajan Shah, who has led the Association since July 2022.

Previously serving as the vice-chairperson of KAM since July 2022, Karuku will be supported by Hitesh Mendiratta, who has been appointed as the vice-chairperson.

Hitesh Mendiratta, the Managing Director of PG Bison, has previously served on the KAM board in various roles related to trade and tax affairs.

“As I take up the mantle, I am looking forward to contributing to the growth of the Association in line with our purpose for creating prosperity for the nation through sustainable industrialization,” Jane Karuku said.

Jane Karuku becomes the second woman to lead the Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) since its inception in 1959. Her responsibilities include expanding the Association’s membership and supporting sectoral growth by advocating for policies that benefit manufacturers. Currently, KAM represents over 1,300 members across various sectors.

“Cognizant of our ambition to grow the contribution of manufacturing to Kenya’s GDP to 20% by 2030, it is clear that we have a lot to do to lead the manufacturing sector towards this ambition,” Karuku added.

“Our first agenda is to industrialize this country and make sure that through KAM, industrialization is more significant than it has ever been,” she added.

Rajan Shah, who is CEO of Capwell Industries Ltd. will remain an ex-officio board member, primarily retaining an advisory role.